Council amends downtown design standards to allow color review, adopts Fourth Street improvement requirement

Doug Hansen, planning and zoning director, presented a proposed amendment to Kuna’s downtown design standards and the council approved Resolution R18-2025.

Hansen said the amendment would permit applicants in the Old Town District, Neighborhood Business District and Railroad District to request design review committee approval for building colors that fall outside the existing approved color palette. He told the council the change is intended to move subjective color requests to a decision-making body rather than allow administrative approval when colors are outside the muted palette in the standards.

The resolution also adds Fourth Street improvements from Linder Avenue to School Avenue as required upon site development or redevelopment. Hansen referenced a Fourth Street concept study and a professional services agreement previously approved by the council (Resolution R09-2024) and said several design iterations addressed lane widths, on-street parking and bicycle and pedestrian facilities to meet city and Ada County Highway District needs.

Morgan Treasurer, Kuna Urban Renewal Agency economic development director, told the council the downtown corridor sits within the West Urban Renewal District and that the district boundary was drawn to capture properties anticipated for redevelopment in support of downtown objectives.

Council members moved, seconded and voted in favor of the resolution. When polled, Council member McPherson, Council member Leroy and Council President Bruce voted yes; the motion carried.